The holy night

It is upon each believer to truly carry the teachings of Islam onto their daily lives

Muslims across the country have just observed the holy night of Shab-e-Qadr, or Lailatur Qadr.

On this night, the first verses of the Holy Qur’an were revealed to Prophet Muhammad (pbuh).

That is why the 27th of Ramadan stands out with such great significance for Muslims all over the world, and the night has been described as the “night of power,” and that it is “better than a thousand months.”

In the Qur’an, it is written: “Lailatul Qadr is better than a thousand months/ The angels and the Spirit (Gabriel) descend therein by permission of their Lord for every matter/ Peace until the emergence of dawn.”

Believers the world over, on this night, pray, and recite from the Holy Qur’an for the blessings of the Almighty on Lailatul Qadr, asking for guidance and mercy, and for protection from troubles and strife.

But going beyond prayer and fasting, it is upon each believer to truly carry the teachings of Islam onto their daily lives.

This means practising honesty, being kind to our fellow human beings, and staying on the path of moral righteousness by shunning violence and denouncing corruption.

The last lap of Ramadan can be a challenge, but the pious will continue their fasts, knowing that it is a particularly important time, spiritually; and all can look forward to the festive Eid-ul-Fitr, which is just around the corner.

Ultimately, the specifics of observance of Lailatul Qadr vary from person to person -- some stand for hours in prayer forgoing sleep, while others clear their minds to remember the teachings of Islam, but the significance of Lailatul Qadr is felt by each and every Muslim.